Q: When is the 2026 Annual Conference? A: The Annual Conference begins with workshops on Sunday, October 25 and will conclude at the Awards and Celebration dinner on Tuesday, October 27. We will have breakouts, panels, and roundtable sessions. Attendees should plan to attend all three days.

 

Q: Where is the Annual Conference? A: The conference will be held at the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark in St. Louis, Missouri.

 

Q: What is the Annual Conference? A: This conference is meant to be for the benefit of the Franchisee and their key staff. The conference will have a lot of learning packed into a short amount of time, but you'll also have opportunities to relax and get to know your peers.

 

Q: Who Should Attend? A: Owners, Managers, spouses, and anyone involved in the day-to-day business of your franchise!

 

Q: Why Should I Attend? A: Anytime you meet with your peers, you have an opportunity to collaborate, hear new ideas, and validate or change your perspectives. You may hear what others are doing and be inspired to implement something similar - or you might find a mentor or even become one.

 

Q: When should I arrive? A: We recommend arriving Saturday, October 24 or Sunday, October 25. You will want to arrive in plenty of time to stop by registration before your first session! Sunday workshops begin at 1:00 PM.

 

Q: Where should I stay? A: Please plan to stay at the Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark in St. Louis, Missouri. Rooms are limited so book early! You can book your rooms via this link: https://book.passkey.com/e/51273293. Our room rate is $199 plus taxes and fees.

 

Q: What if I need special accommodations or have a special request for my hotel room? A: Please reserve your room through our link provided above and contact the hotel with your reservation number for any requests or needs.

 

Q: What does my conference registration include? A: Conference registration includes access to all sessions, as well as most meals and access to networking events. You can register for the conference here: https://na.eventscloud.com/mainline2026

 

Q: What should I wear/pack? A: In general, the dress code for conference events is business casual. Be sure to dress in layers; conference centers often range from drafty to stuffy, so be ready to change dress accordingly.

 

Q: Where do I check in on the first day? A: On-site conference check-in and registration will be open sunday, October 25 at 12:00 PM in the Grand Foyer on the second floor.

 

Q: Do I have to attend each session? A: If you are coming to the Annual Conference, please plan to attend each session for the full duration. It is extremely distracting to have individuals coming and going at different times. We have a lot of new, exciting information to be shared during all sessions at the conference.

 

Q: Is there an early bird registration discount? A: Yes, early bird registration is $569 until August 25, after which the rate increases to $699. FMT franchisees should refer to their email for a specific registration code.

 

Q: Are there transportation options from the airport to the resort? A: Taxi, Uber, and Lyft services are available from the airport to the resort. 

 

Q: What networking opportunities will be available? A: In addition to the Sunday reception, we'll have multiple networking breaks and social events throughout the conference. The afternoon activities on Monday, October 26 will provide excellent opportunities to connect with fellow franchisees in a relaxed setting.

 

Q: Is there a conference app? A: Yes, we'll provide more details later this summer with how to access and utilize the conference app.

 

Q: What is the cancellation policy for conference registration? A: You may cancel your conference registration and receive a full refund, less a $75.00 processing fee, by notifying Designing Events in writing of the cancellation no later than September 25, 2026. No refunds will be granted after September 25, although substitutions will be allowed at any time. Refunds and substitutions should be requested by emailing mainline@designingevents.com or calling 240-915-8930. This is different than hotel reservations.

 

Q: Will there be exhibitors or vendors at the conference? A: Yes, our vendor partners will be available in the exhibitor hall beginning Sunday afternoon and throughout the conference.

 

Q: Are meals included for guests/spouses? A: Meal tickets can be purchased through registration for the awards dinner on Tuesday night at $120 per person.

 

Q: What activities are available at the resort during free time? A: The Hilton St. Louis at the Ballpark offers plenty to do between sessions, including an indoor pool, fitness center, on-site dining options, and an on-property Starbucks for a quick coffee break. You can also head up to the 360 rooftop bar to enjoy panoramic views of the Gateway Arch, Busch Stadium, and downtown St. Louis, or walk across to Ballpark Village for restaurants, bars, and live entertainment just steps from the hotel. The Gateway Arch and Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals, are only two blocks away.